How To Make Your Own Natural Deodorant

Did you know that your favorite deodorant might contain dangerous ingredients that are known to cause cancer, brain damage, and liver abnormalities? Here are three of the worst:

Parabens:  Parabens (look on the label for methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben or isobutylparaben)  are used in many skincare and cosmetic products. They function as a preservative to  discourage bacteria and fungus. Research indicates that parabens from lotions or deodorants absorb into the body and weakly mimic estrogen, wreaking havoc on the endocrine system. Parabens have, not surprisingly, been found in breast cancer tumors- did you know that over 55% of breast tumors are located on the upper outside of the breast, near the underarm? That fact alone is enough to reconsider your paraben-ridden deodorant!  

Aluminum: The active ingredient in many deodorants/antiperspirants is aluminum, which actually blocks the body from producing sweat. I'd really hesitate to use any chemical compound that inhibits a normal and useful bodily function... but aside from that, aluminum can cause neurological damage and contribute to diseases like Alzheimer's  and Parkinson's. Aluminum can enter and remain in a human bloodstream for up to two weeks after just one application of deodorant/antiperspirant. 

Propelene Glycol: Propelene Glycol, often used in deodorants, is an ingredient in antifreeze. Factory workers who are exposed to it are warned of the danger of kidney, brain, and liver damage through skin contact. 

I've been using various all-natural deodorants for years to avoid exposing my body to the nasty ingredients in mainstream products, but have found it difficult to find one that I really like. Many brands are just too expensive, smell weird, or leave my skin dry, itchy, and red. I decided to try making my own deodorant on a whim and... wow! It's cheap, easy to make, and leaves my underarm skin odor-free, residue-free, soft, and smelling faintly of coconut. 

SO. I'm running the risk of being criticized for blogging about my armpits (:-)) to share this discovery with you!  

You'll only need a few simple ingredients: baking soda, which neutralizes odor, arrowroot powder to absorb moisture, and tea tree and coconut oil (both are antibacterials and antifungals, and the coconut oil is a great skin moisturizer).

Measurements:
1/4 Cup of Baking Soda
1/4 Cup of Arrowroot starch
4 Tb Coconut Oil
1/4 tsp Tea Tree Oil
Mix all ingredients together to form a paste/cream... and that's it!

To apply, just dip a finger in, hold it against your skin to warm the mixture for a second, and rub it in! A little goes a long way... I've never had trouble with it leaving spots on my clothing and I no longer have itchy, dry underarm skin issues! 

Original Article Source: Lifestyle Justice